Tips on getting a higher appraisal of your home.... (sales, real estate)

[A-BIG-NOTHING]

hello,
i'm having an appraisal done on my house today and wanted to see if anyone here knows any tricks that "MAY" have a positive impact on the appraisal value...

i know that appraisers are supposed to "look only at structural values" of a house, like number of bedrooms, baths, garages, sq. footage, etc. but i also feel that if a house is messy and dirty, that would impact the appraiser's value negatively.

so, aside from the things i've done as far as cleaning and buying some flowers for the counter and stuff like that, are there any other last minute tips you may be able to give me?

thanks in advance.

[nwlv]

Times have changed. Before, you could have casually mentioned the "amount" to the appraiser, and he would be on his way. If you have good views; leave the blinds open. Get rid of the cats for a few days, at least. Appraisers have noses. Put the garden hose away. Make sure all light bulbs are working. Garage should be uncluttered.

[Samara11]

I've heard a lot also depend on your neighborhood sales also, i.e. the sale prices of other "comparable" homes that have been sold recently. Good luck with the appraisal!!

[Denton56]

Our appraiser didn't even look in the garage.

Be sure to tell her how your house might be different from others in the neighborhood, any updates or remodeling that you have done that make your house more valuable than the others.

[nwlv]

I don't think an appraiser would even want to speak with the owner. It would be hearsay.

[tgbwc]

If you are trying to sell your house, have your real estate agent meet the appraisor and make sure he/she points out everything that should be noted.